Professor of Gynecological and Obstetric Surgery Department
Abstract
This report reviews the life and work of one of the greats of obstetrics and gynecology: Dr. Leon Speroff, professor emeritus and former chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, and former chairman and holder of the Arthur H. Bill Chair in Reproductive Biology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Leon has made a significant contribution to the understanding of reproductive endocrinology, including key concepts in the hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle, the role of prostaglandins in ovulation, induction of myometrial contractions, induction of labor, and mid-trimester termination of pregnancy. He has also contributed to the development of radioimmunoassays for the detection of primary prostaglandins and their metabolites. In addition, he has described the role of prostaglandins in endotoxic shock and the use of clomiphene in ovulation induction. Her work on hormone replacement therapy for perimenopausal women and the use of steroid hormones to prevent pregnancy has revolutionized the clinical practice of physicians.
